MERV rating guide

MERV 8, MERV 13 and carbon: which filter fits?

MERV tells you how much airborne particulate matter a filter can capture. Here is how our filters compare and where each one fits best.

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Questions? Call (561) 241-9666 · Boca Raton, Florida

Plusco MERV 13 AC and HVAC filter box with filters Plusco carbon AC and HVAC filter box with black carbon filters Plusco MERV 8 AC and HVAC filter box with filters
  • MERV 8Everyday filtration for dust, pollen and pet dander.
  • MERV 13Finer particle capture for cleaner indoor air.
  • CarbonBlack activated-carbon filters for odors and fumes. Priced in the calculator.

The basics

What MERV means

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It is a scale for how well a filter captures particles of different sizes. A higher number means the filter captures finer particles. It also means the air meets more resistance moving through it.

Higher MERV, finer capture

A MERV 13 filter catches smaller particles than a MERV 8 filter.

Higher MERV, more resistance

Denser media slows airflow more. Some systems are built for it and some are not.

Match the filter to the system

Check what your HVAC equipment supports before moving up to MERV 13. Send us your size and we will help you choose.

Choose your efficiency

MERV 8, MERV 13 or carbon

Three filter types, built in the same sizes and depths. Pick what your system and your space need.

Plusco MERV 8 AC and HVAC filters

MERV 8

Everyday filtration

  • Captures common household dust, pollen and pet dander
  • Lower airflow resistance
  • A fit for most standard residential and light commercial systems
Higher efficiency Plusco MERV 13 AC and HVAC filters

MERV 13

Finer particle capture

  • Captures finer particles than MERV 8
  • Popular for offices, hotels and allergy-conscious homes
  • Check that your HVAC system supports it
Plusco carbon AC and HVAC filters with black activated-carbon media

Carbon

Odor and fume control

  • Black activated-carbon media
  • Used where odors and fumes are a concern
  • Priced in the calculator, same sizes and depths

Not sure which one fits your system? Send us your size and we will help you choose.

Where each one fits

Which MERV for which space

Standard homes: MERV 8

A solid everyday choice for most residential systems. Good airflow and good value.

Allergy-conscious homes: MERV 13

Catches finer particles, which many allergy sufferers look for. Confirm your system can handle it.

Offices and retail: MERV 8 or 13

MERV 8 for general use. MERV 13 where you want cleaner air for staff and customers.

Hotels and hospitality: MERV 13

Common where guest comfort and air quality matter. We make custom sizes and bulk orders.

Property managers: MERV 8 or 13

Pick by building and system, then order in volume on a schedule.

Odors and fumes: add carbon

Standard filters catch particles, not smells. A carbon filter helps with odors and fumes.

Carbon filters

We also offer carbon filters.

Carbon filters use a black activated-carbon material. They are used where odors, fumes or gases are a concern, such as kitchens, restaurants, labs and workshops. Pick Carbon in the calculator for instant pricing, or tell us the size, the quantity and what you are trying to reduce and we will quote it.

  • Odor and fume reduction
  • Sizes made to fit your system
  • Bulk and recurring orders
  • Priced in the calculator
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Common MERV questions

Is a higher MERV always better?

Not always. Higher MERV captures finer particles but restricts airflow more. If your system was not built for it, it can strain the equipment. Check your system's limits first.

How often should I change my filter?

It depends on the filter, the space and how hard the system runs. Many homes change every one to three months. Busy commercial spaces may change more often. Ordering on a schedule keeps it simple.

Do you offer carbon filters?

Yes. Request a quote with your size, quantity and what you want to reduce, and we will get back to you.

I am not sure which one I need.

Send us your filter size and what the filter is for. We will help you choose.

Ready to price your filters?

Use the calculator for MERV 8, MERV 13 and carbon, or request a quote for custom and bulk orders.

Price a filter